Branzino is a tasty fish that’s easy to cook and great for dinner. It’s also called European sea bass and has a light, mild flavor that goes well with many different seasonings and sides.

In this blog, we will show you how to bake a whole branzino using just a few simple ingredients. You don’t need to be a fancy chef.

Along with that, we will also share two fun ways to make it: one with Greek flavors and one with Mediterranean ingredients.

Get ready to make a healthy, delicious meal right at home!

Whole Branzino Recipe: Classic Baked Branzino

Step-by-Step Process for Making Baked Branzino

Ready to cook your own delicious baked branzino? Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to make a flavorful dish right in your kitchen:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Let it heat up fully while you prepare the fish. Preheating ensures that the fish cooks evenly and at the right temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

Take the whole branzino and rinse it under cold water to remove any remaining scales or debris.

Use a paper towel to pat the fish dry, both inside and out, gently.

Make sure the fish is clean and dry to help it cook properly and to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Stuff the Fish

Slice the lemon into thin rounds and peel and slice the garlic cloves.

Carefully stuff the inside of the fish with the lemon slices, garlic, and a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley.

These ingredients will infuse the fish with flavor while it bakes.

Step 4: Season the Fish

Now, drizzle olive oil over the entire fish, making sure it’s well-coated on both sides.

This will help create a crispy skin while keeping the fish moist.

Next, sprinkle salt and pepper generously to taste. For added flavor, you can also drizzle a bit of white wine over the fish or scatter some capers around it.

Step 5: Bake the Fish

Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleaning easier.

Put the fish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the fish.

You will know it is done when the fish flakes easily with a fork, and the flesh turns white and opaque.

If you are unsure, you can use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Serve

Once the fish is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

You can garnish with extra herbs or lemon slices for a fresh touch.

Serve the baked branzino hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, a light salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Two Ways to Cook Branzino: Greek Baked & Mediterranean Style

If you love baked fish, you will enjoy these two tasty ways to cook branzino.

Both the Greek-style baked branzinoand the Mediterranean-style branzino use fresh herbs, olive oil, and lemon for a light and healthy meal.

These recipes are easy to make and full of taste. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each one different!

Additional Ingredients for Greek & Mediterranean-Style Baked Branzino

1. Greek Baked Branzino

With just a few extra ingredients like feta cheese and olives, this recipe gives a fresh twist to the classic baked branzino.

It is light, healthy, and full of flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or a special meal.

To make it, you can add Kalamata olives around the fish before baking to bring in a rich, salty flavor.

And, once the fish is done baking, top it with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.

2. Mediterranean Style Brazino

Mediterranean Style Branzino is full of fresh and colorful flavors. This recipe uses simple ingredients like tomatoes, olives, herbs, and olive oil to bring out the natural taste of the fish.

It is simple, healthy, and full of fresh flavor. The mix of veggies, olive oil, and gentle spices brings out the natural taste of the fish in a new and exciting way. It is a great choice for a relaxed meal with family or friends.

While preparing, add cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and capers around the fish before baking to bring out fresh, tangy flavors.

Once the fish is done baking, garnish with fresh thyme and optional lemon zest for a zesty finish.

How to Store Leftover Baked Branzino?

If you have leftover branzino, let it cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps avoid too much moisture, which can make the fish soggy.

Place the fish in an airtight container to keep it fresh and stop it from picking up other smells in the fridge. Try to put the leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours after cooking.

Branzino is best eaten within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and safety. When you are ready to eat it again, reheat it slowly using low heat.

You can use the oven or microwave, and adding a little olive oil or water will help keep the fish soft and moist.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Branzino

Here are essential tips to ensure your baked branzino turns out perfectly every time, tender, flaky, and bursting with flavor:

• Choose Fresh Fish: Look for clear eyes, shiny skin, and a clean ocean smell for the best taste and texture.
• Drizzle with Olive Oil: Keeps the fish moist while adding rich flavor that complements branzino’s delicate taste.
• Season Generously: Use salt, pepper, fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, and lemon zest for bright, aromatic flavor.
• Bake at 400°F for 20-25 Minutes: This temperature ensures even cooking while keeping the fish tender and flaky.
• Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze before serving adds the perfect tangy brightness to complete the dish.

No matter if you are a beginner or an experienced cook, you will enjoy this tasty and straightforward recipe!

Wrapping It Up

No matter whether you choose the classic method or add a Greek or Mediterranean twist, it is a great way to enjoy fresh fish.

By following the simple steps for cooking, seasoning, and storing, you can ensure that your branzino turns out flavourful every time.

Do not forget to cool and store leftovers properly so that you can enjoy them later! With these easy tips and recipes, you’re ready to cook and savour a perfectly baked branzino, no matter which style you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Branzino for Baking?

Yes, you can use frozen branzino. Just be sure to thaw it completely before baking for the best texture and flavor.

Do I Need to Remove the Bones Before Baking?

Branzino typically has small bones, but they can be easily removed after cooking. If you prefer, you can ask your fishmonger to fillet it for you.

What Side Dishes Go Well with Baked Branzino?

Baked branzino pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, a light salad, or a side of roasted potatoes. For a Mediterranean twist, try serving it with couscous or olives.